The Detroit Lions have had a pretty busy offseason so far. However, they are now preparing for a big change to their offensive line. While some have had doubts about the move, head coach Dan Campbell does not seem to be one of them.

The move would place  All-Pro offensive tackle Penei Sewell at left tackle after the departure of veteran Taylor Decker. Speaking with reporters on Friday, Campbell revealed the details of the switch.

“Good. He’s been working on it. Even being back home before we started the offseason once they gave him the word.” 

Campbell also mentioned how the transition would not cause any trouble for Sewell.

“It’ll be like riding a bike for him. Will there be things he’ll have to learn? Yeah, of course there will be. But, I mean, he has played left.” 

This was in reference to Sewell having previous experience on the left side, where he played extensively in college. Campbell also emphasized how Sewell’s versatility is one of his greatest strengths.

“He still took reps at left even over the last five years. So that’ll be seamless. Sewell can do it all.” 

The confidence from Detroit’s coaching staff is understandable considering Sewell’s remarkable resume. However, this move is vital to the Lions being able to contend for the playoffs and more.

Why This Move Is So Important For The Lions

Since getting drafted seventh overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, Sewell has become one of the premier offensive tackles. He’s a 3-time All-Pro and a 4-time Pro-Bowler through his first 5 seasons. Very few offensive linemen have a resume like Sewell’s within their first 5 years in the league.

Sewell will anchor quarterback Jared Goff’s blind side. Goff has already praised Sewell for the way he has handled the transition to left tackle. "He's done a heck of a job so far," Goff told reporters after Friday's OTA session in Allen Park.

Sewell’s ability to immediately dominate at left tackle could determine how smoothly the offense operates in 2026. However, signs are positive going into training camp.

"It's not an easy offense to step into and help lead the charge up front, but he's done a great job," Goff added.

However, the Lions will have to depend on first-round rookie Blake Miller and veteran Larry Borom on the right. This is a risk, and they will have to maintain elite offensive play if they want to contend this season. 

If the move does work out, the Lions would have successfully replaced Decker and still kept one of the strongest offensive lines intact. This could be the deciding factor for the Lions to be present at the playoffs.

What are your opinions on moving Sewell to the left? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Dhruv Vishnu Nair

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi